KLM thinks the pilot cap is old fashioned

FULL ARTICLE

Haarlemmermeer - The KLM pilots will no longer wear the cap from January 1, 2018. For the company, this element of the uniform is a thing of the past.

KLM pilots have been wearing caps since the launch of the company almost 100 years ago. Over the years, the style and appearance of the cap have changed to fit the fashion. But KLM explains in a statement that it no longer sees "added value" from this accessory. Starting from the beginning of the new year, the airline operator wants to give a "more modern" appearance to its pilots by removing the cap from pilot uniforms.

A KLM spokesperson assures that the company is not motivated by cost considerations. KLM seems rather to follow a trend in the industry. Other Dutch companies have already removed the obligation to wear the cap for pilots. This is particularly the case for Transavia, KLM's low-cost subsidiary. Pilots of European low-cost airlines, such as Ryanair and easyJet, do not wear caps. On the other hand, it is still mandatory for companies with strong traditional roots such as Air France, British Airways, and Lufthansa.

KLM pilots are allowed to keep their caps after January 1st, but the company invites them to donate their caps to Stichting Hoogvliegers, a Dutch foundation that gives sick children a chance to be pilots for a day.